97 Affordable Gifts for Readers

paddywax.com

In his famous memoir, On Writing, Stephen King said: “Books are a uniquely portable magic,” and he was right. A powerful novel has the ability to transport and transform—but every reader has his or her own preferred genre or author. So, instead of giving your friend a gift card to a local bookstore, opt for something a little more personal and exciting for the holidays—and don’t run the risk of buying him a book he already has on his shelves. In our gift guide, you won’t find specific titles for the reader on your list (with a few notable exceptions—because who doesn’t like Jane Austen or Anne of Green Gables?). Instead, we selected a variety of unique, thoughtful items that complete any reading experience, and we’re sure that these novel products will delight all of the book-lovers and avid readers in your life.

From whimsical bookshelf accents, to collectible items featuring classic characters, to a Catcher in the Rye phone cover (for the rebel), to a chic case for her reading glasses, there’s something for every bookworm’s taste and style. Now that colder, cozier weather is settling in, this guide includes everything a bibliophile needs for a quiet night at home, curled up with her latest novel and a cup of tea (or a glass of wine)—minus the crackling fireplace. And yes, we even picked out special gift options for those who prefer e-Readers over paperbacks. Want additional inspiration? Find more unique gifts for the book-lovers on your list.

1 of 97paddywax.com

Library Candles

Know a fan of Mark Twain or John Steinbeck? The brand curated ten collections of fragrances inspired by these literary greats’ works.

Fingerprint Bookmark Band

Stone Bookend in Alabaster

A hefty book collection calls for a sturdy support. Give their books the boost they need with one or a pair of these pretty alabaster bookends with brass inlay. A decorative addition to the book lover’s bookshelf.

The Storymatic Game

If he’s running into roadblocks while writing his novel or just looking for a creative outlet, these story-starter cards are just what he needs. Gold cards provide the characters while the copper ones give the impetus for the tale’s events. Select your cards and get creative.

Where the Wild Things Are Pin

Max for her bag, Carol for her coat. Or use them as friendship pins for the book lovers on your list. Whatever you choose, these classic storybook characters will instantly transport them back to their mischievous childhood antics.

I Cannot Live Without Books: Literary Tattoos for Book Lovers

If you had to talk a friend out of nearly getting inked with a Harry Potter quote, this book is for them. Filled with six pages of literary-themed temporary tattoos, your friend will be able to show off that they’re a bibliophile, without any of the long-term regret.

Great Shakespearean Deaths Card Game

While there is something new to discover in each of Shakespeare’s many plays and stories, one common theme is the dramatic death scenes in each. In this funny and morbid game, Shakespeare fans will compete with each other, using characters’ death characteristics such as goriness, dramatic quality, and last words.

Escape by Gray Malin

Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward

Buy the reader in your life this novel, a finalist for the National Book Award for Fiction. Jojo is 13 years old, living in Mississippi, caring for his young sister, sick grandmother, and drug-addicted mother. As the family road-trips to reunite with Jojo’s incarcerated father, Ward touches on racial injustices and growing up in an unforgiving America.

Little Fires Everywhere, by Celeste Ng

This sophomore novel from Ng (Everything I Never Told You), was one of the most anticipated novels of 2017. It follows the dramatic events that unfold in a picture-perfect Cleveland suburb in the late 1990s following a custody battle over a Chinese-American baby.

Manhattan Beach, by Jennifer Egan

For historical fiction lovers, gift them this book from Jennifer Egan (a Pulitzer Prize winner for A Visit from the Goon Squad) that immerses readers in 20th century Brooklyn. With striking detail, Egan follows Anna Kerrigan as she grows up during the Depression, becomes the naval yard’s first female diver, and untangles her father’s disappearance.

Marlena, by Julie Buntin

Gift your favorite reader this novel released earlier this year, which explores the life of Cat, the title character’s best friend. In this moving story set after Marlena’s death, Cat, now in her 30s, recalls a year in their adolescence that impacted them in ways they could never imagine.

Sour Heart, by Jenny Zhang

Gift a book lover this moving collection of stories. In it, Zhang tells the stories of seven different daughters of immigrants from Shanghai living in NYC during the 1990s and their parents’ experiences in 1960s China in this poignant collection of stories. With incredible honesty Zhang brings to life the disappointing experience many immigrants found when searching for their freedom.

What We Lose, by Zinzi Clemons

This debut novel from Zinzi Clemmons is a moving coming of age story. Thandi, raised in America, has never felt particularly close to her mother’s youth in Johannesburg. But when her mother is diagnosed with cancer, Thandi must learn to live her life without her. Through beautiful prose, Clemmons addresses the profound effect loss can have on our lives and the impact that our complex identities can have on our lives.

Goodbye, Vitamin, by Rachel Khong

Perfect for the reader that’s dealing with an elderly parent, this tender debut novel from Rachel Khong tells the story of Ruth, 30 years old and freshly disengaged from her fiancé. When Ruth moves home to take care of her father, a noted history professor recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she learns to find humor, and new life, while caring for her aging dad.

Anything Is Possible, by Elizabeth Strout

Gift the book lover in your life this moving novel from Pulitzer Prize winner Elizabeth Strout. In Anything Is Possible, Strout introduces readers to two sisters at different junctures in their lives, and what unfolds as they are reunited after seventeen years.

You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me: A Memoir, by Sherman Alexie

After his mother passed away, National Book Award-winning author Sherman Alexie was moved to write a memoir that reflected on their complex relationship. Through poetry, essays, and family photographs, Alexie brings the reader into his world, a young boy raised in a poor family by alcoholic parents on an Indian reservation.

Hunger, by Roxane Gay

Gift a reader this honest memoir, from Bad Feminist writer Roxane Gay. Between the pages, Gay tackles the complexity of nourishing oneself. No stranger to the topic, Gay has frequently written about her weight, her relationship with food as a means of self-care, and the trauma that changed her relationship with eating. Readers will connect with Gay’s vulnerability and her reflections on how society too often ties size to worth.

I’d Rather Be Reading, by Guinevere De La Mare

For your friend who can’t get enough of scrolling through shelfies (artfully-taken pictures of bookshelves on Instagram), there’s I’d Rather be Reading: A Library of Art for Book Lovers. In addition to the gorgeous images on each page, readers will enjoy interwoven essays from Ann Patchett, Maura Kelly, and more.

Laugh, by Lisa Sturge

Not only is laughing fun, but it has a myriad of benefits—including reducing stress and releasing endorphins that allow you to naturally relax. In this fun book, readers will learn about all of the ways that laughter—what Sturge calls “mindfulness in motion”—improves our everyday lives, along with easy exercises to get you giggling.

Knife, by Tim Hayward

Foodie-types will love ode to the knife, an essential culinary tool. The book looks at over 40 different types of knives and tells their stories through their histories and gorgeous photographs. This collection is perfect for those interested in learning more about the kitchen tool they probably take for granted.

The Authentiques, by Melanie Acevedo and Dara Caponigro

For the style devotee in your life, gift them this gorgeous book from renowned photographer Melanie Acevedo and founding editor of domino magazine Dara Caponigro. Readers will find stunning photographs from the gorgeous homes of famous creators in art, design, and fashion.

Signs of Hope, by Matthew “Levee” Chavez

Following the intense political divide of the 2016 election, individuals in many cities across the country united by posting positive messages of hope and unity on post-it notes in the subway. Most of these gatherings were prompted by Matthew Chavez, who showed up with stacks of sticky notes and asked strangers to express themselves. This book is a tribute to the messages people wrote during the experience.

SHE, by kate spade new york

The fourth book in this series from fashion brand kate spade highlights and celebrates both modern heroines and amazing historical women. Tucked between the pages, readers will find the stories of women like Gloria Steinem and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.

Cinemaps, by Andrew DeGraff and A.D. Jameson

Perfect for the movie buff in your life is this collection of beautifully illustrated maps from popular films. Alongside written commentary from film critic A.D. Jameson, readers will find gorgeous images highlighting important details and places from classics like King Kong, The Shining, and Back to the Future.

Annie Leibovitz: Portraits 2005-2016

This book memorializes the incredible body of portraiture work that Annie Leibovitz created over 11 years. Each of the images in this provocative and compelling collection tells a unique story about both the face in the photo and the brilliant photographer behind the camera.

My Life With Bob, by Pamela Paul

Pamela Paul has kept a record of every book she’s ever read over the past twenty-eight years, a collection she calls Bob: her Book Of Books. In this collection of stories, Paul reflects not only on the books that have shaped her life, but on the special relationship between book and reader.

Letters of Note, by Shaun Usher

This unique collection of letters gives readers a glimpse into the minds of some of the most important people in history, through a single letter of correspondence. Including names like Andy Warhol and Emily Dickenson, readers will delight in learning about these notable people in a new way.

642 Lists to Write, by San Francisco Writers’ Grotto

From the writer’s group that brought you 642 Things To Write About comes another book of prompts to get your loved one’s creative juices flowing. From topics including quirky thought starters (like things that will never go out of style to fads that would never catch on), they’re sure to find inspiration on every page.

Typewriters: Iconic Machines from the Golden Age of Mechanical Writing, by Anthony Casillo

This hilarious book examines one of the most important tools in the history of literature—the typewriter. Starting with their invention, to featuring different makes and models, to each one’s quirks and details, readers will find both fascinating history and pretty photographs.

Literary Candles

It’s not what you think—these won’t make your home smell like a library (though, that would be amazing). Instead, candle-maker and English major Callie Meaney has created soy candles that mimic the scents and scenes from some of the most famous classic novels, including Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre, Alice in Wonderland, and Sherlock Holmes. Wondering what Sherlock Holmes’ 221B Baker Street apartment would smell like? Meaney thinks a combination of black currant tea and leather books would make Sherlock feel at home. Any bibliophile can light one on a rainy afternoon for a quiet day at home with her favorite novel.

Personalized Leather Eyeglass Case

Don’t let her haphazardly throw her reading glasses into her purse, or stretch them out by resting them on her head—give her this stylish, yet simple, case for her reading glasses. Each leather case is handmade in Germany, and the monogram can be customized to her initials, last name, first name, or any identifier you think she’ll appreciate. You can even choose between brown and black leather (bonus points if you can match the case to her purse or wallet). This isn’t a last-minute gift, however, because it does take up to three weeks to ship.

Jane Austen Boxed Postcards

For the aspiring writer (and avid reader), these illustrated postcards will provide plenty of literary inspiration. Each patterned postcard features a line from one of Austen’s works or published letters. A true Austen fan will know that the author was a famous and well-versed letter writer—her best correspondences are now compiled into an anthology. For the fan that hopes to embody Austen’s habits and prose, these postcards will provide the perfect inspiration. Plus, the 100 notes are enclosed in an embossed keepsake box, where the lucky recipient can store jewelry, notes, and more.

Harry Potter Library Quote Poster Print

If he can’t get through an email or conversation without quoting or referencing Harry Potter, then he needs this print in his office (or home). Featuring a line from the series’ famous, lovable bookworm, this handmade poster ships from Britain—the home country of Hermione herself! Note: The sizes are based on the British paper sizing system (A1, A2, A3, and A4), so visit this handy chart to make sure you’re ordering the correct dimensions—although the seller notes he can customize the print to whatever size you need. Additionally, the frame is not included, so you’ll have to have it framed before the holidays!

The Book Lover’s Journal

Readers know the stress of seeing another list of the best books to read this month, this season, or this year. It’s hard to keep track of a reading wish list when there are so many genres and authors to tackle! This journal helps organize any reader’s inventory—the notebook includes spaces to record books you want to read, books you’ve loaned to or borrowed from friends, and the contact information for your book club. The main attraction: Pages and pages to record details from the books you’ve read, making it easy to reference and recommend your favorite novels in the future.

NUACAshop Felt and Leather Kindle Case

Even if she prefers actual books, chances are she still carries some kind of e-reader to make enjoying a book while commuting a little more convenient (an 800-page novel is not easy to store in your purse). Or maybe she’s a traveler, and the Kindle is the easiest way to load up her suitcase with her favorite books before she boards the plane. This handmade felt sleeve is a chic, minimalist way to protect her tablet. If she doesn’t have a Paperwhite Kindle, shop the Etsy seller’s other sizes and fabrics for the ideal dimensions and material for her device. The case comes in gray and black felt, as well as red and white leathers for a more polished vibe.

West Elm Metal + Pastel Glass Candleholders

The dedicated bookworm knows that when shopping for furniture, a bookshelf is an extremely important purchase. If her bookshelf is carefully curated with her favorite titles, travel keepsakes, and other artfully chosen accessories, these candles will add a modern accent to her display. Ranging from small, three-inch votives to 10-inch candles, they come in several shades of colored glass with either silver or copper plating on the bottom. She can keep them on her bookshelf or add them to a dining table for a festive centerpiece—they’re simple enough to go with almost any décor in her home.

Anne of Green Gables Book Set

The new Anne of Green Gables movie premiering this fall on PBS and the miniseries soon to follow on Netflix are both proof that this treasured children’s story is finding new life in the 21st century. For a friend who has been a fan of Anne Shirley since her debut in 1908, this beautiful set of books is great to reread before watching the new films, and includes the first six unabridged stories from L.M. Montgomery. Readers will recognize Anne’s famous hat on the bindings of the books. She can curl up and read her favorite stories all winter while she waiting for the Netflix premiere.

Chronicle Books Typewriter Paper Notes

For the friend who still chooses handwritten lists over the Notes app in his phone, this playful container of note paper will be a welcome addition to his workspace. The miniature box mimics an actual Royal typewriter and each perforated piece of paper has a vintage watermark—including “From the Desk Of” and “Memo”—just like an actual typewriter sheet. The 55 unique pages pull out of the top of the box (like a typewriter—sensing a theme here?) and are ideal for jotting down little reminders. Keep in mind: These aren’t full-sized pieces of paper—each is slightly larger than a Post-It note.

Out of Print Banned Books Matchbox Set

These clever collectible matchboxes are miniature replicas of some of the most famous banned novels in history—the matches, of course, being a nod to book burnings that used to occur around the world as a form of censorship. From Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 to Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, each box features the original cover illustration for the novel and on the back, a line about why the book was banned from shelves. Fun fact: The Adventures of Tom Sawyer was banned from the Brooklyn Public Library in 1876 because the protagonist was of “questionable character.” Each box contains 20 matches.

Joss & Main ‘The End’ Book Ends

This whimsical wooden bookend is a fun way to keep his favorite titles stacked and organized, while also adding dimension and character to his bookshelf or desk. The neutral color matches any shelf and provides a nice contrast to a row of colorful bindings. To help fill up his shelf, pair the bookend with a membership to a seasonal literature subscription box (we love Quarterlane Books), so he’s always on top of the newest, most talked-about titles. Now, if only it came with a companion that said, “The Beginning”—then it would really bring the bookshelf full circle.

Kate Spade New York Glasses Pencil Pouch

Whether she wears cat-eye, round, square, or browline frames, she can show off her signature style with this chic leatherette pouch. Dappled with black frames, this graphic pouch holds all of her favorite reading accessories, from highlighters to bookmarks. It even comes with a handful of stylish office supplies to get her started: two pencils (etched with “so well composed” in gold), a sharpener, an eraser, and a ruler—so she’s able to jot down any clever notes that come to mind while reading. And don’t worry—at 8½-inches by 5½-inches, it’s small enough to slip into her favorite book bag.

Back Me Up! Mobile Charger

Imagine the horror of being in the middle of a page-turner and having your iPad suddenly lose power. Keep her reading through that long train ride with this glitzy, gold speckled portable charger. It connects directly to her tablet—no cords required—to keep her bag neat and organized. Looking for a gift for someone who wouldn’t dare touch an e-book? There’s nothing worse for a bookworm than ducking into the bookstore with a dead phone (How are you supposed to check Goodreads, after all?). Be a good friend and help keep her devices charged as she powers through her to-read list.

NeenaCreates Book-Lover Pullover

You know her favorite activity is snuggling up with a book and a cup of tea on a chilly Saturday afternoon. Keep her cozy while reading with this slouchy raglan pullover. Adorned with fanciful script lettering that reads: “I have always imagined paradise to be a kind of library,” a quote from Argentine writer and poet Jorge Luis Borges, the sweater comes in eight colors, and the quote can be printed in either white or black ink. Since the seller makes each sweatshirt by hand, using a homemade silkscreen, please allow one to two weeks for creation and shipping.

Literature Rocks Glasses

This gift is great for people who like their spirits the same way they like their literature: classic. Have him pour his nightly Old Fashioned into a rocks glass that’s etched with the first edition inside cover and opening lines of Pride and Prejudice (“It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune must be in want of a wife.”) Not an Austen fan? Etsy seller theUncommonGreen also sells the 11-ounce glass decorated with opening pages from more than 15 other great works, like H.G. Wells’ War of the Worlds, Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre and James Joyce’s Ulysses.

‘Readers Gonna Read’ Mug

If there are two things no one can have enough of, it’s books and coffee cups. And this classic mug is perfect for the bookworm who loves coffee just as much as she loves novels. The cup says “readers gonna read” (a playful departure from “haters gonna hate”) in beautiful black script on both sides. It’s available in two sizes—11-ounce and 15-ounce—so she’ll have enough joe to fuel her session, whether she’s tearing through a short story or just cracking open that lengthy novel. The best part? It’s dishwasher safe, so that means less time cleaning dishes and more time reading.

Jane Austen Classic Novels

Designed by graphic artist Leanne Shapton, these beautiful book covers give Jane Austen’s timeless novels an artsy update. Offer your bookworm friend these colorful editions—she’ll love re-reading the classics over and over again, plus they’ll look so nice on her bookshelf. Choose from Pride & Prejudice, which comes in a red and black chevron pattern, Sense and Sensibility, which comes in a green and gold polka dot, or Emma, which comes in a peach-colored watercolor print. The books are sold individually, but the whole set would make for a generous (though not too pricey) gift.

Novel Teas

Would you like a quote with your cup of English breakfast tea? Quotes from classic novels are paired with an equally classic black tea blend to create the perfect gift for your book-loving friend. This set includes 25 tea bags tagged with famous literary quotes (A few example: “Never judge a book by its movie,” “She is too fond of books, and it has turned her brain,” and “Wear the old coat and buy the new book.”). The caffeinated black tea bags are perfect for serving up at the next book club meeting, too.

Book Print

Now your favorite book can be a part of your décor. A print of a book cover is set on a vintage encyclopedia page—you can choose from a variety of cover options, from classics like The Great Gatsby and The Little Prince to new favorites like The Goldfinch and Wild. No two pieces will be the same, and there may be some imperfections and yellowing. Although shown framed, the frame and matting are not included. Instead, the work of art comes carefully packaged in clear cellophane with a protective card backing to keep it from bending in transit.

Ideal Bookshelf Print

The book collections of artist Jane Mount never get dog-eared. Each archival-image print features the definitive group of titles on one subject, like Southern literature (which features titles like The Color Purple, All the King’s Men, and, of course, Gone With the Wind), Tweens (which features popular YA reads like Harriet the Spy, Matilda, and Harry Potter), or Girl Stars, shown here (which features admirable leading ladies from novels like The Secret Garden, Anne of Green Gables, and Sense and Sensibility). Choose from three different sizes. The eight-by-10-inch print is also available in a white box frame with white mat and Plexiglass.

Knock Knock Personal Library Kit

Share the latest and greatest must-read titles with friends, while knowing they’ll be returned (and on time!). This old-school kit is filled with all of the tools you’ll need, including 20 self-adhesive pockets and checkout cards, a date stamp and ink pad, and a pencil, to keep tabs on your precious paperbacks and hardcovers. The whole set comes packaged neatly in a box that can be used to house and keep all the supplies organized in perpetuity. When you’re all out of cards, a refill kit that comes with 15 self-adhesive pockets will keep your lending library open for business.

Letters of Note: Volume 2: An Eclectic Collection of Correspondence Deserving of a Wider Audience, Compiled by Shaun Usher

Take a break from email and text messaging and dive into this impressive collection of letters instead. History lovers and bibliophiles alike will relish poring through 125 letters written by authors, scientists, celebrities, and ordinary people. Like it’s 2014 predecessor, each entry includes a replica of the letter in its original form, a transcription (if necessary), and background information to provide context. Highlights include a British professor’s cover letter to Albus Dumbledore, requesting to be considered for the position of Defense of the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry (and the kind rejection from J.K. Rowling, in character as Professor Dumbledore), a moving letter from Abraham Lincoln to a young girl whose father was killed in the Civil War, and David Bowie’s response to his first piece of American fan mail. Relive history with your loved ones with this endlessly entertaining compilation.

Be the Change: A Grandfather Gandhi Story, by Arun Gandhi and Bethany Hegedus

Wrap up an important life lesson this holiday season. In this beautifully illustrated children’s book, Gandhi’s grandson shares how his grandfather taught him to be aware of how his actions affect others. As child growing up on an ashram, Arun Gandhi vows to live simply and non-violently. But there is one important rule he cannot wrap his head around: do not waste. How can tossing aside one worn-down pencil cause harm? How can violence stem from wastefulness? With the help of his grandfather he comes to see how our actions, even those that seem insignificant, affect others. We’re confident there will be plenty to discuss after this thought-provoking read.

This picture book will give kids a great introduction to Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and provide a vocabulary lesson along the way. Starting with her childhood in Brooklyn, Ginsburg disagrees, dissents, resists, disapproves, objects, and protests everything from being forced to write with her right hand in elementary school (Ginsburg is a lefty), to unequal pay for women. Kids will gain a better understanding of the world Ginsburg grew up in as well as the impact she has made on our country. As the book jacket says, “Disagreeing does not make a person disagreeable. In fact, it can change the world!”

As the introduction says, “This is a book about girls who had a ton of fear and personal flaws and faced insurmountable obstacles, but did amazing things anyway.” Revisit one hundred of history’s most impressive women in this exquisite illustrated collection from illustrator, letterer, and graphic designer Ann Shen. Featuring well-known ladies such as Marie Antoinette, Marie Curie, and Billie Holiday, Bad Girls Throughout History also sheds light on some lesser-known names. Get to know Maria Mitchell, America’s first professional female astronomer, and Anna May Wong, the first Asian-American movie star. Each woman is honored with a beautiful watercolor portrait as well as an essay celebrating her accomplishments.

Tell Me a Tattoo Story, by Alison McGhee

Know a parent with a bit of ink? This is the book for him or her. A love story between a father and his small son, Tell Me a Tattoo Story traces one family’s history through the lines of a father’s tattoos. One design is dedicated to his favorite children’s book, one reminds him of meeting his wife, and another memorializes his Army service in the Middle East. But the most important relic of all? A small heart honoring his son’s birthday. Parents with or without tattoos will be touched by the heartwarming tale about sharing your past with your children—it leaves a mark.

In the Company of Women: Inspiration and Advice from over 100 Makers, Artists, and Entrepreneurs, by Grace Bonney

Give the gift of empowerment with this inspiring compilation of interviews with more than 100 female entrepreneurs. Grace Bonney, the founder of the tremendously popular site, Design*Sponge, created this important project, which brings together artists, chefs, hoteliers, stylists, and small business owners to share their hard-won wisdom and advice. Filled with stunning photography and insightful quotes (Interior designer Sheila Bridges advises, “Over the years, I’ve learned to trust my gut when it comes to people and situations. Don’t be afraid of your own intuitive power as a woman.”), this book will provide more than enough material for budding inspiration boards. Wrap this up for a recent grad, creative mind, or anyone looking for a healthy dose of girl power.

They All Saw a Cat, by Brendan Wenzel

Kids will learn to see the world from other points of view in this ingenious picture book from illustrator Brendan Wenzel. As the cat goes for a walk, different animals take note of the feline, and what they each see is wildly different: A child sees a friendly pet. A flea sees a sea of tall fur, ready to explore. A mouse sees a terrifying monster. Even a bat and a worm “see” the cat through vibrations and echolocation, but they all see a cat. Not only is each illustration its own piece of art, but there is a miniature science lesson on every spread as kids are asked to view the world from someone else’s eyes. A valuable gift, indeed.

I Like You, I Love You, by Carissa Potter

Share your true feelings this holiday season with this sweet stocking stuffer. At the start, artist Carissa Potter encourages the reader to “explore the subtle transitions of relationships from initial attraction through compromise, all the way to choosing to grow together.” In just under 100 pages, Potter traces a romance from the unpredictable alchemy that brings the right person to the right place at the right time, to accepting that one partner isn’t a morning person, to the conscious decision to keep both their love and their houseplants alive. If words tend to fail you, let this darling book do the talking.

The Fireside Grown-Up Guide to the Mom, by Jason Hazeley and Joel Morris

Reminiscent of the Little Golden Books of years past, this laugh-out-loud parody chronicles the trials and tribulations of modern mothers. Alice, a successful biochemist, has been reduced to “Olivia’s mom.” Cathy has made a doll from the corks of Pinot Grigio bottles that were lying around the house. And Debbie? While she used to fear being alone, she would give anything for just a few minutes of solitude. This small book, featuring vintage illustrations from the U.K.’s Ladybird children’s books, is the perfect size for a stocking stuffer. Other editions of the Fireside Grown-Up Guide series include The Husband, The Hangover, and Mindfulness, so you’re sure to find something for everyone.

Why Boys Need Parents, by Alex Beckerman

Parents of boys (or, let’s face it, fully grown men) will smile when they flip through this short, sweet celebration of boys and all of their exuberance, and mischievousness. Filled with both modern and vintage photos of boys clowning around, making a mess, and getting their hands dirty, this book proves that boys really do need parents. Why, you might ask? Who else will keep them from licking frozen poles, or referee pillow fights, or stop them from climbing…everything? Well, even parents might not be able to stop them from climbing. Boys will be boys, after all.

Help your explorer (or wannabe explorer) travel to the far corners of the world without leaving her living room with this nearly 500-page encyclopedia of more than 600 off-the-beaten-path destinations and landmarks. Did you know that there is a temple in Deshnoke, Rajasthan that is home to more than 20,000 holy rats? Or that there is a Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, Croatia? Compiled by the team behind the popular Atlas Obscura website, this impressive book is brimming with photos, maps, graphics, and obscure trivia that will satisfy all curious travelers. Consider it a bucket list of destinations to be seen.

ABC: The Alphabet from the Sky, by Benedikt Gross and Joey Lee

I spy with my little eye… While this book may be intended for children ages three to five, the whole family will enjoy flipping through gorgeous aerial photographs, searching for the hidden letter on each spread. Part letter search, part geography lesson, little scholars will travel from California to Illinois to Rhode Island and everywhere in between as they look for “accidental letters” in buildings, rivers, lakes, and more. The authors even provide the coordinates for the locations they shot from, so readers might be able to spot their house with a little help from Google Earth!

Andy Warhol Coloring Book, by Mudpuppy

The coloring book craze is definitely still going strong. Honor the father of pop art with this 32-page booklet featuring some of Andy Warhol’s most iconic images. Your amateur artist can get creative as he lends his own vision to Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans (why not try a purple label?), Marilyn Monroe, and the banana made famous by The Velvet Underground & Nico album cover. As an added bonus, the pages are perforated, which makes tearing out his masterpieces that much easier. It won’t be long before the refrigerator transforms into Warhol’s famed studio, The Factory.

You Are Here: NYC: Mapping the Soul of the City, by Katharine Harmon

New Yorkers will love receiving this inventive collection of maps of the Big Apple. Sure, they might know that the streets go east and west and the avenues go north and south, but what about the locations of the clubs that bore witness to the birth of hip-hop? Among the some 200 color maps are “A Nightclub Map of Harlem” (the Cotton Club and the Savoy are two notable landmarks) and “Wonders of New York,” which highlights 300 sites of interest. Beautiful, intricate, and informative, these maps are sure to school even lifelong New Yorkers.

The Joy of Lettering, by Gabri Joy Kirkendall and Jaclyn Escalera

You may have noticed a resurgence in hand lettering recently. From greeting cards to book covers to the menu board at coffee shops, the classic art form is everywhere. Now budding artists can try their hand at the craft with this instructional guide. Beginning with the basics: a breakdown of the common style elements of serif, sans serif, lowercase, and uppercase type, this how-to book takes the reader through the history of typography from Garamond to Helvetica to the modern-day rebirth of hand lettering. Once readers master writing in pencil, ink, and marker, they can learn how to create letters using alternative media and materials, such as watercolor and wood stencils. Give this manual, and you might just receive a handmade thank-you card.

How to Celebrate Everything: Recipes and Rituals for Birthdays, Holidays, Family Dinners, and Every Day in Between, by Jenny Rosenstrach

Turn little moments into memories with this inspired cookbook from Dinner: A Love Story blogger Jenny Rosenstrach. Packed with more than 100 family-friendly recipes to help you create celebrations out of seemingly routine events, this book will teach readers slow down and savor family rituals. Organized into four groupings, including Our Family Rituals (Rosenstrach’s traditions include homemade popovers on sleepover mornings), Holidays We Didn’t Invent (e.g., latkes for Hanukkah), Birthdays (including her legendary chocolate-frosted “mud” cake), and Family Dinners; the recipes will provide ample inspiration to carve out more time with your loved ones. What better time to do that than during the holidays?

Paint by Sticker, by Workman Publishing

Smocks (and artistic talent) not required! Teens and adults alike can create colorful mosaics with this beautiful craft book. Choose from 12 designs, including a vase of sunflowers, a fox, and hot air balloons in flight, and simply find the sticker, peel it, and place it in its corresponding place. Perforated pages make it easy to remove completed projects for framing or display. Watch the hours fly by as your amateur artist immerses herself (and tests her fine motor skills—look for Workman Publishing’s Paint by Sticker Kids for younger children) in this fresh take on crafting.

Art Is the Highest Form of Hope & Other Quotesby Artists, by Phaidon Editors

Inspire the budding Picasso in your life with this tome of quotes from famed artists including Salvador DalÃ­, Jackson Pollock, Georgia O’Keefe, and more. Featuring hundreds of quotes on a wide array of topics, ranging from inspiration, to childhood (as it turns out Jean-Michel Basquiat was a “lousy artist” as a kid), to the weather (Vincent Van Gogh felt handicapped by the rain), this handsome leather book will serve as entertainment and resource for all creative minds. Plus, with its easy-to-navigate index with original sources, you’ll be sure you’re quoting your heroes correctly, and that is a thing of beauty.

A Celebration of Beatrix Potter: Art and Letters by More than 30 of Today’s Favorite Children’s Book Illustrators

In honor of Beatrix Potter’s 150th birthday, the biggest names in children’s books have reimagined her famous characters for this charming book. Along with each vivid drawing, the illustrators explain what that character means to them. For example, Tomie dePaola of Strega Nona fame provides a rendition of Beatrix Potter (well, Mrs. Heelis, her married name) and Mrs. Tiggy-winkle, the hedgehog laundress, sharing tea. Betsy Lewin, the illustrator of Click Clack Moo: Cows that Type, shares that The Tale of Peter Rabbit was among her favorite pictures books as a child and offers her own interpretation of the mischievous cottontail. Both new and old lovers of Beatrix Potter will delight in this exquisite art book.

A coffee table book with a lump (or two) of psychoanalysis, anyone? This unique book, perfect for a curious friend or a therapist’s office, consists of an eclectic assortment of psychological and personality tests dating back to the early twentieth century. Of course there is the Rorschach Inkblot Test, but there are also lesser-known assessments, like the Make a Picture Story Test (1942), in which subjects are invited to make up stories using a kit of 67 human, super-human, and animal paper dolls. (The psychologist would then, in turn, interpret the stories for signs of lunacy.) There are also new quizzes—some overtly humorous, others less so—developed by contemporary artists and writers. Complete with a scoring guide for several of the tests, this book will make for a great conversation starter after all of the presents have been opened.

The Great Spruce, by John Duvall and illustrated by Rebecca Gibbon

Go green this Christmas with this picture book about a boy saving a tree from being cut down. Meet Alec, a young boy who loves to climb all trees, especially a towering spruce. He spends his days climbing its strong branches and surveying the land below. Then one day, a group of curious men from the nearby city take notice of Alec’s great spruce and ask to chop it down for the city’s holiday celebration. Distraught at the thought of losing his favorite lookout spot, Alec comes up with a plan that satisfies everyone: Why don’t they dig out the tree and just lend it to the city? Former arborist John Duvall even includes instructions on how to transplant a tree in the back, so get ready to roll up your sleeves and get in the garden this spring.

The Emotionary: A Dictionary of Words That Don't Exist for Feelings That Do, by Eden Sher

Teens and millennials will feel a kinship with The Middle star Eden Sher, who created this clever lexicon of invented words to describe emotions and situations that Merriam-Webster simply couldn’t define. Perhaps you know someone who has suffered namenesia, which Sher defines as “the experience of forgetting someone’s name literally one second after they’ve introduced themselves.” Or maybe your teenager has complained about feeling his phone vibrate, only to find that no one is trying to contact him. That would be fauxbration. Accompanied by illustrations from graphic novelist Julia Wertz, The Emotionary will provide relief for anyone who has been overcome with emotion and struggled to find the words.

Simple: The Easiest Cookbook in the World, by Jean-Francois Mallet

Cooking can be quite a chore, especially if you’re new to the game. There are so many ingredients, prep tasks and cooking times to consider. But not with this genius read by esteemed chef Jean Francois Mallet. There’s no more than four steps or six ingredients for each recipe (!!!), which means breakfast, dinner and everything in between is covered. Seemingly fancy recipes like veal ragout with asparagus or cognac lobster with cream are made easy with to-the-point instructions and methods. Even better: There are individual pictures of each required ingredient so you know exactly what’s needed. Bon appetit!

Slothlove: A 100-Page Art and Photography Book, by Sam Trull

Sam Trull, a zoologist and photographer, compiled this adorable picture book after logging more than 15,000 hours with sloths. Trull even recently began a conservation institute to protect the animal’s welfare through research and education. In the book, readers will get up close and personal with the curious mammal and learn about the differences between species, how they socialize and play, and even what they eat (hibiscus flowers, cinnamon-tree leaves and fruit). Did you know sloths are great swimmers? Their stroke resembles a sophisticated doggie paddle. Who can resist looking at baby sloth pictures? No one.

This gorgeous read is brimming with delicious (and good for you) scones, breads, cookies, and other desserts. It’s no surprise that the author, Genevieve Ko, has worked alongside notable chefs and developed recipes for a multitude of food and health magazines (including Real Simple!). The featured recipes (like golden raisin and pecan thins, carrot cake with orange cream frosting, and pear and fennel tartlets) are made wholesome with simple swaps like healthful oils instead of butter and flavorful maple syrup or molasses instead of refined sugar. Even better, many of the baked treats are gluten free, dairy free or vegan.

The Art of Dressing Curves: The Best-Kept Secrets of a Fashion Stylist, by Susan Moses

Veteran celebrity stylist Susan Moses has developed a true styling guidebook for the curvy woman. Based on the author’s own journey, the book is equal parts inspirational and educational and includes advice for all aspects of dressing, from choosing clothes, to shapewear to beauty. Learn about how to dress your body type and show off your best assets. Moses also shares her favorite retailers, designers and websites for plus-size shoppers. “A woman with great style is clear on what works for her: she has a fearless approach to dressing in a way that comes naturally,” says Moses.

Who Done It?, by Olivier Tallec

Little ones will love finding clues to answer pressing questions like, “Who didn’t get enough sleep?” Or, “Who is nervous?” Each page offers a comical, bright, illustrated lineup of kids and their animal friends and asks one question. Not every answer is intuitive—the book helps children hone their problem solving and observational skills, because it may take a few minutes to discover which animal is in disguise (the one wearing a mask) or which one got in a tussle with a cat (the one with the claw mark). The end of the book offers an answer key just in case they get stumped.

All Black Cats Are Not Alike by Amy Goldwasser and Peter Arkle

The new book All Black Cats Are Not Alike by Amy Goldwasser and Peter Arkle is filled with true-life tales and stunning hand-drawn portraits of 50 entirely unique all-black feline characters. Goldwasser and Arkle own two black cats themselves, Mimi and Coco, and the seed for this book was planted when Arkle drew a simple illustration for guests that helped differentiate the two felines. What began as a Kickstarter campaign soon became a beloved book, featured in the New Yorker for its vivid illustrations and clever characterization of each cat. This limited-edition hardcover is a loving tribute to feline eccentricity and charm—and the purrrfect gift for the cat lover in your life.

The United States of Pizza, by Craig Priebe and Dianne Jacob

The country’s best regional recipes, all collected in one keepsake collection. Anyone who loves pizza—and feels strongly that they know which restaurant makes the best slice—will appreciate this state-by-state journey through pizzerias in America. The chef and author did his due diligence, traveling the country to visit as many pizza-making restaurants as possible while taste testing their most unique offerings. Pizzas range from traditional cheese pizzas to deep dish pies with wacky flavor combinations (pizza with ahi tuna?!). The book also includes diagrams of various pizza doughs and contact information for every pizzeria included in the anthology. Real Simple’s (unofficial) pizza editor gives it five stars.

Consider this book a more attractive version of Google, suitable for any coffee table. It includes a step-by-step guide on everything from cleaning cast-iron pans, to starting a campfire, to repairing a flat bicycle tire to tying strong knots. Some of these skills you might not think you’d ever use…until one day you’re stuck and in need of some basic know-how. This tome is a collection of almost 50 how-tos for the most useful tasks in kitchen, outdoor, home, gardening, and grooming categories. By the purveyors of the masterfully curated online store with the same name, their first endeavor in print is a worthy one.

Fantastic Cities, by Steve McDonald

The coloring book boom has been beneficial to both children and adults.There are so many beautiful books on the market for adults looking to zone out for a few hours, which is sure to offer some stress relief. For the grownup who is always doodling, gift this architectural coloring book, featuring birds-eye views of real cities (New York, Tokyo, Rio, and more) along with some made-up geometric designs as meditative mandalas. Every page features an intricate, detailed illustration that will provide hours of color-fueled zen. Pair the book with a large pack of colored pencils and it will be sure to delight.

One Year Wiser: 365 Illustrated Meditations, by Mike Medaglia

This inspiring, gorgeously illustrated book features motivational writings from thinkers as diverse as Abraham Lincoln and the Dalai Lama. Every page represents a famous mindful philosophy with a creative, thought-provoking illustration inspired by Japanese and Chinese artwork. You may even want to tear out the pages to hang on your fridge or cubicle wall for a daily pick-me-up. There are 365 nuggets of wisdom to get you through the year. It’s perfect for the friend searching to bring mindfulness to each of their daily actions. Medaglia has also illustrated a coloring book and gratitude journal of the same name.

Every Person in New York, by Jason Polan

You may recognize Polan’s signature linear drawings—he is an American artist whose aim is to draw “every person in New York”—he chronicled his efforts with a blog and previewed certain scenes on his Instagram account. Now, in this coffee table book, Polan has compiled caricatures of notables (and real folks) in and around the Big Apple—everywhere from fast food joints to the steps of historic monuments. You’ll see people waiting on subway platforms, visiting shops on 5th avenue, and the back of Jerry Seinfeld’s head, to name a few. This is just the first volume, so we expect more quirky fun to come in the near future.

Cabins, by Philip Jodidio

For fans of architecture or the friend who dreams of spending a peaceful week in the woods, this tome is a must-have for a coffee table or library. The book takes an in-depth look at innovative cabins from all over the globe—from an artist’s studio in England to a hut in India—and explores the design genre beyond the traditional log house, as well as why the isolated setting has become crucial for creative thinkers. With bright, beautiful photography juxtaposed against striking illustrations, there is enough architectural eye candy to keep the reader occupied for hours.

The Bergdorf Goodman Cookbook,by Laura Silverman

Dine in style every day with this cookbook filled with 100 recipes from the famed restaurant located in the legendary department store in New York City. Inside you’ll find classic recipes, plus the favorite dishes of designers and notables like Zac Posen, Bobbi Brown, and Diane Von Furstenberg. It includes the recipe for the restaurant’s famed Gotham Salad, an update on the New York chopped salad, made with Gruyere cheese, bacon, and a signature dressing. Each recipe comes with a story, either from the restaurant or one of the fashion icons, so you have a guaranteed conversation starter while serving up your fancy meal.

Thing Explainer, by Randall Munroe

Gift your naturally inquisitive friends with this helpful book. They can learn everything they’ve wanted to know about places and things like the International Space Station, microwaves, and cells without complicated scientific jargon. For example, Munroe offers the perfect simplified analogy for the solar system: the “other worlds around the sun.” This book is perfect for children or adults. Munroe also explains the ideas through clever concept blueprints and uncomplicated vocabulary. Be warned: Giving this book to a friend pretty much guarantees that they will become smarter than you, because it does such a thorough job at explaining complex ideas.

I Can Make Dolls' Clothes, by Louise Scott-Smith and Georgia Vaux

If your kids are disappointed with the clothing options for their standard 12-inch dolls, they can design and make their own with this easy-to-follow pattern book. Some of the fashion includes a tunic top, an A-line skirt, a faux-fur jacket, and even a fringed bag. The kit will help teach the basics of sewing for beginners.

The Puffin In Bloom Book Collection

Penguin enlisted Anna Bond, founder of the chic stationery brand Rifle Paper Co., to redesign the covers for beloved children’s classics, including Anne of Green Gables, Heidi, Little Women, and A Little Princess. The result? “Puffin in Bloom,” a collection of pretty, floral-themed must-reads, perfect for classics fans and new readers, alike. The set even includes four matching bookmarks. Together, the four novels will bring life to any bookshelf. You can buy the whole set together, but if you know your friend already owns one or two of the novels, you can find them individually on Amazon.

The New Health Rules, by Frank Lipman and Danielle Claro

Wellness has become trendy, but it seems as if there’s a new workout fad or superfood introduced every day. With an overwhelming amount of health information available, friends will welcome a book that helps deliver trusted information all in one place. The New Health Rules delivers cutting-edge wellness advice alongside lush photographs. In this streamlined guide to feeling good, Frank Lipman, M.D., alterna-doc to the stars, and Real Simple’s deputy editor Danielle Claro cover everything from what to have for breakfast to how to get a good night’s sleep, providing 175 actionable tips for anyone looking to live a healthier life.

100 Photographs: The Most Influential Images of All Time

TIME magazine, which is published by the same company as Real Simple, is known for its thorough reporting, thought-provoking stories, and beautiful, striking imagery. To celebrate the 175th anniversary of photography, TIME editors have selected their favorite shots from the magazine’s history, photographs that represent some of the most influential, important, and often historic moments across the world. The volume is a celebration of photojournalism and a guaranteed conversation starter on any coffee table. From groundbreaking photos taken at international protests to the first sports photo to win a Pulitzer Prize (Babe Ruth at Yankee Stadium), the book contains many important moments that family and friends will recognize.